2019 Mongol Derby: Dark Horses

2019 Mongol Derby: Dark Horses

*THREE DAYS TO GO!**

It's hard to predict a winner when it comes to the Mongol Derby, but as far as the riders are concerned they will be far more interested in picking a decent horse. Start well on a fast horse and there's every chance that the herders at the next station will fall over themselves to offer you their best horses. Pick badly and you risk only having the other riders' leftovers to choose from at the next station.
There are really only three ways to pick horses:

1. Conformation
Riders may differ on exactly what they're looking for, but good feet, straight legs, a nice roomy ribcage (for a big heart and lungs), a good shoulder and a long body (to allow the horse to stretch out and cover as much ground as possible) are a good place to start. Conformation isn't everything but its a good place to start.

2. Ask the herders
This is a very good idea for the less experienced riders and actually, a good idea for anyone. The herders all have their favourites and every year there are some serious racehorses hiding in the herd, too. The language barrier isn't as much of an obstacle to this method as you might think - it isn't hard to mime "fast" or "won't kill me". More difficult can be convincing the herders you really want what you're asking for. The bush telegraph works extremely well meaning that each station has a well formed opinion of each rider before they appear over the horizon. Sometimes this is entirely fair and the rider really does need a bit less horse than they're asking for. Sometimes the herders get it wrong. You pays your money...

3. Gut instinct

Do you like 'em wild and crazy? Do you prefer a kind eye and gentle soul? Do you find it difficult to put your feelings into words but know what you're looking for all the same? Sounds crazy, but it works. Sometimes, anyway.

Maybe I should say that there are only three SENSIBLE ways to pick horses. There's nothing to stop riders picking horses because they are a pretty colour, or because they have Barbie manes. Or because they prefer stallions. Unless that comes under gut instinct?

If you've ridden the race, how did you pick them? Did it work? Did you know that your best horse was going to be fantastic before you put your foot in the stirrup?  

Today's competition: the best Mongolian horse memory entered below wins a mars bar next time I see you.

**PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Dunwoody.  Butchering by yours truly.**